The Sidewalk Cafe is about to celebrate 40 years in the V!  Woohoo, that is an incredible amount of time for a restaurant.  As well, they have a staff of over 100 people, and they are rabid sponsors of community events, especially the music festivals.  Go Sidewalk.

On The Waterfront Cafe  just hit the 20 year mark.  And, they employ a staff of locals, some that have been there the entire time.  the place has been open.  The beer is stuff of legend, as is the food, inspired by owner Stefan Bachofner’s swiss upbringing.  They also have a boardwalk patio, a back patio and T.V.s to watch sports.  Woohoo!

James Beach is at the 20 year mark as well.  Seen in several movies, and know as West Beach Cafe for decades before it was James Beach, this iconic Venice haunt has been part of the scene for forever.

The Canal Club which is at 18 years, has one of the best happy hours in town.  And, their ever evolving menu has some of the finest dishes in the V, courtesy of Chef Wesley.  Also, the staff is super cool locals, with some of them have been there since it was called Rebecca’s, which was the 70’s and 80’s.

The Cow’s End Cafe was a coffee house local hang long before it was a trend.  Years prior to the rise of Starbucks, Clabe Hartley had a vision inspired by his childhood in Chicago, where coffee houses were a neighborhood staple, and he built the Cow’s End.  The food and drinks are great, the vibe is chill, and the prices are right.  As well, they have a kid’s sing along on Tuesday mornings, and free internet.

Hama Sushi is the oldest sushi bar in Venice!  Opening in the 70’s Hama has been an neighborhood hang for decades.  Happy hour starts and 4:00 and is a must try if you have not already.  Also, they are very involved in the community.  The walls of Hama function as an art gallery, showcasing local artist works.  And, the outdoor patio houses Hama-wood, a tribute to Venice’s rich film history.

Jody Maroni’s Sausage Kingdom, perhaps the most iconic Venice food brand, has been on Oceanfront walk for 37 years. Still run today by Jody himself, it is the destination for gourmet sausage, hot dogs and almost all things meat.  Started in ’79 as a grill on the boardwalk, the shop is a classic cinderella story, having several locations, and to go frozen packs as well.  Jody’s Maroni’s has sponsored many local events and has a staff of smiling local faces.

Tony P’s Dockside Grill in the Marina has been around for 20 years, as of Super Bowl Sunday 2017.  It has a magnificent view of the marina, a giant tavern with over 40 beers on draft, a beloved staff, and an outstanding selection of generously portioned food. The owners,Tony and Dan are big time community involved and are long time West siders.  Check out the happy hour, it starts at 3:00 p.m. M-F.

And, if you happen to be in Malibu, check out the REEL INN.  This place has been around almost 30 years, the owners are fantastic and the food is out of this world.  Add in a phenomenal view of the Pacific Ocean and Malibu Canyon, great prices and a friendly staff and there it is.  Make it a road trip destination next time you leave the V.

Well that is it for this list, reader.  But, next time you reach for your money, pause to think about who and what you are supporting.